Eligibility & Licensing

Eligibility & Licensing Requirements

Training eligibility varies by program and state regulations. This page explains the general requirements — and how we help you navigate them.

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TRAINING PATHS

Which Course Are You Interested In?

Click a card below to see the specific legal requirements for that career.

Threading

Hair Removal

NO License Required

Threading is an unregulated service in Iowa. You do not need any prior licensing to take this course or practice professionally.

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Permanent Makeup / Scalp Micropigmentation

Brows, Lips, Liner, SMP

Tattoo Permit or Equivalent Required

Falls under Tattoo Law. No cosmetology license needed. You only need a BBP cert and a tattoo artist permit (we help you apply).

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Lash Extensions

Classic, Hybrid, Volume

License MANDATORY

By Iowa Law, you must hold an active Cosmetology or Esthetician license (or be currently enrolled) to take this course.

Read Rules

For PMU / SMP Students Only

PMU & SMP Checklist

This track is for students taking Microblading, Ombre Powder, Nano Brows, Lip Blush, or Eyeliner PMU courses and Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) courses.

Important

If you do not have an active cosmetology, esthetician, registered nurse, or physician license, you will need to complete the Tattoo Artist Permit requirement.

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Age Requirement

Must be at least 18 years old with a valid government ID.

BBP Certification

Bloodborne Pathogens for Body Art course (~$25 online).

First Aid / CPR

Standard certification (Red Cross or online).

Tattoo Artist Permit

Apply via Iowa Department of Public Health (~$75/year). We guide you through this application in class.

Cosmetology License

Active Iowa Cosmetology License required to perform lash extensions professionally.

Esthetician License

Active Iowa Esthetician License required to perform lash extensions professionally.

Nursing License (RN/LPN)

Nurses may perform this but should check specific medical board regulations regarding facility requirements.

For Lash Students Only

Lash Extension Checklist

This track is for students taking Classic, Hybrid, or Volume Eyelash Extension courses.

Restricted

Iowa law classifies eyelash extensions as a cosmetology service. You cannot perform this legally without a professional license.

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Cosmetology License

Active Iowa Cosmetology License required to perform lash extensions professionally.

Esthetician License

Active Iowa Esthetician License required to perform lash extensions professionally.

Nursing License (RN/LPN)

Nurses may perform this but should check specific medical board regulations regarding facility requirements.

Currently Enrolled Student

Students currently enrolled in Beauty School may take the course but cannot practice professionally for money until fully licensed.

TRANSPARENCY

Important Boundaries

We don't bypass state regulations
We don't guarantee licenses or permits
We don't enroll students without appropriate eligibility

QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to start training?

Not for all programs. Many starter programs don't require prior licensing. We'll clarify what applies to your situation during consultation.

Can I get my permit while training?

In many cases, yes. Some students obtain required permits during their training journey. We help guide you through the process.

What if I'm unsure about my eligibility?

That's exactly what consultations are for. We review your background and goals to determine the right path — no guesswork required.

Not Sure Where You Qualify?

Eligibility can feel complicated — but it doesn't have to be. A consultation helps clarify what applies to you and which training path makes sense.

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